The Lattice Structure of Nanodiamond

However, the particles small dimensions give rise to one of the characteristic structural features of nanodiamond The large portion of surface atoms causes strain within the particles that shows in an altered bonding situation close to the surface. In NMR-examinations, for instance, the carbon atoms on the surface exhibit another chemical shift than those situated in the core of the particle. This is due to the attachment of functional groups or due to sp -hybridized atoms arising from a reconstruction of the surface (Section 5.2.2). 

Further defects include, for example, the directed doping with boron, nitrogen or nickel. These confer certain electronic or optical properties to the nanodiamond particles (Section 6.2.3). Experimental as well as theoretical results show that only few elements Hke boron, nitrogen, silicon, oxygen, or phosphorus can be incorpo- 

For a diamond particle 2 nm in size, for example, the portion of surface atoms (Qo) is already more than 40%. 

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